Thales will deliver GM200 MM/C radars to strengthen Belgium’s Blue Dome with a mobile, networked air-surveillance and target-tracking capability

Blue Dome, Belgium’s new layered air-defence capability, will include, GM200 MM/C radars, providing the shared, accurate air picture to connect sensors, command-and-control systems, and effectors into a responsive defence network. Deeply rooted in Belgium’s industrial and technological ecosystem, Thales employs more than 1,400 people across 12 sites in all regions of the country. The recruitment of over 100 employees in 2026 further illustrates the Group’s sustained investment in local talent, innovation, and long-term growth

Developed and produced in the Netherlands, the GM200 MM/C radar reflects Thales’ commitment to European sovereignty, innovation and industrial cooperation. Its selection extends a capability already in operational service with the Netherlands and supports a common air-defence architecture across the region.

The GM200 MM/C is also being customised for integrated ground-based air defence (GBAD) architectures with Kongsberg’s Fire Distribution Centre (command and control) and Raytheon’s AMRAAM missile, resulting in the GM200 MM/C–NASAMS configuration. After the initial configuration with the Netherlands, Belgium’s selection further accelerates this sensor-to-shooter collaboration.

A multi-mission radar for modern threats

Leveraging Thales’ 4D active electronically scanned array (AESA) technology, the GM200 MM/C radar combines air surveillance, air defence, and counter-battery missions in a single, highly mobile system. It provides commanders with real-time situational awareness to counter a wide range of threats, including drones, loitering munitions, missiles, aircraft, helicopters, rockets, artillery, and mortar fire.

The radar can be deployed in under 60 seconds, transported in a standard 20-foot ISO container and operated remotely within a network. This allows forces to reposition rapidly, sustain coverage and adapt to dynamic and changing threat environments.

Strengthening European cooperation

Belgium’s decision builds on the Netherlands’ operational experience with the GM200 MM/C, which has already also been procured by Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Lithuania. It consolidates the strong cooperation between Belgium and the Netherlands to share common operational solutions. This common European capability enables shared training, maintenance, and software updates, reinforcing interoperability among allied forces.

By placing the GM200 MM/C radar at the heart of Blue Dome, Belgium is enhancing its national protection today while contributing to a more interoperable, resilient, and NASAMS-enabled air-defence network for Benelux, NATO, and Europe tomorrow.

    “Belgium’s decision to integrate the GM200 MM/C radar into Blue Dome marks a significant step forward in European air-defence cooperation. By leveraging our proven radar technology alongside Kongsberg’s command-and-control and Raytheon’s missile systems, we are delivering a fully networked, sensor-to-shooter solution that enhances interoperability across NATO and the Benelux region. This acquisition not only strengthens Belgium’s defence capabilities but also reinforces the European industrial ecosystem, ensuring sovereign and resilient air-defence solutions for the future.” Hervé Dammann, Executive Vice-President, Land and Air Systems, Thales.

photo courtesy Thales